In the Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh, Jispa is a hidden gem known for its pristine landscapes, stunning mountains, and the enchanting Bhaga River. This small village, located on the Manali-Leh Highway, is an ideal stopover for travelers heading towards Leh, offering a serene ambiance and breathtaking views.
If you’re planning a trip to Jispa, you might be wondering how to reach this picturesque destination. Whether you prefer road trips, air travel, or rail routes, this guide covers all the possible ways to reach Jispa, along with essential tips and recommendations.
How to Reach Jispa by Road
From Manali to Jispa
One of the most common routes to reach Jispa is via Manali. The distance from Manali to Jispa is approximately 140 km, and the journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on road and weather conditions.
Route:
- Manali → Solang Valley → Atal Tunnel → Sissu → Keylong → Jispa
Best Travel Options:
- By Car/Bike: Renting a self-drive car or bike is an adventurous way to reach Jispa. You can explore at your own pace and enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way.
- By Bus: HRTC and private buses operate between Manali and Leh, making stops at Jispa. Opt for a Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus or a private Volvo bus.
- By Taxi: Private taxis are available from Manali, but they can be a bit expensive.
Travel Tips:
- Always check road conditions, especially during monsoon and winter.
- Pack adequate warm clothing, as nighttime temperatures can become quite chilly.
- Keep extra fuel if traveling by bike, as fuel stations are limited.
From Leh to Jispa
If you’re traveling from Leh, Jispa serves as a great pit stop on the way to Manali. The distance between Leh and Jispa is around 335 km, and it takes about 8-10 hours to reach by road.
Route:
- Leh → Upshi → Tanglang La → Pang → Sarchu → Baralacha La → Jispa
Best Travel Options:
- By Car/Bike: Renting a vehicle in Leh is a popular choice for adventure seekers.
- By Bus: HRTC and private buses run from Leh to Manali, stopping at Jispa.
- By Taxi: Private taxis are available but can be costly.
Travel Tips:
- Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.
- Carry food and water, as options along the way are limited.
- Start early in the morning to avoid driving in the dark.
From Delhi to Jispa
For travelers coming from Delhi, there are multiple options to reach Jispa.
Route:
- Delhi → Chandigarh → Manali → Atal Tunnel → Jispa
Best Travel Options:
- By Car/Bike: A road trip from Delhi is an exciting adventure, covering approximately 630 km and taking around 15-16 hours.
- By Bus: Take an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi to Manali, then another bus or taxi to Jispa.
- By Taxi: You can hire a private cab from Delhi, but it’s a costly option.
Travel Tips:
- Break your journey at Manali for better acclimatization.
- Start early to avoid traffic congestion on the Manali-Leh Highway.
How to Reach Jispa by Air
Jispa doesn’t have its own airport, but the nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), located about 190 km away.
Nearest Airports:
- Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport) (190 km)
- Connected to Delhi and Chandigarh via domestic flights.
- Taxis and buses are available from Bhuntar to Manali and further to Jispa.
- Chandigarh International Airport (470 km)
- Better connectivity with major Indian cities.
- You can take a bus or hire a taxi to Manali, then proceed to Jispa.
- Leh Airport (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport) (335 km)
- Ideal for travelers coming from Leh.
- Taxis and buses are available for onward travel.
Travel Tips:
- Flight cancellations are common due to weather; always check before booking.
- Prefer early morning flights for better connectivity.
- Arrange a taxi or bus in advance from the airport to Manali.
How to Reach Jispa by Train
Jispa doesn’t have a railway station. The nearest railway stations are:
- Chandigarh Railway Station (470 km)
- Joginder Nagar Railway Station (260 km)
- Nearest narrow-gauge railway station.
- Limited connectivity, so Chandigarh is a better option.
- Pathankot Railway Station (350 km)
- Serves as an alternative railhead.
- Buses and taxis are available to Manali, then onward to Jispa.
Travel Tips:
- Ensure you reserve your train tickets ahead of time, particularly during high travel seasons.
- Chandigarh railway station offers better onward travel options.
Tourist Attractions in Jispa:
While Jispa is a small village, it offers several attractions that make it a must-visit destination.
- Bhaga River – A serene river flowing through Jispa, perfect for photography and relaxation.
- Jispa Monastery – A small yet peaceful monastery offering insights into Buddhist culture.
- Suraj Tal – Located en route to Leh, this stunning lake is among the highest in India.
- Baralacha La Pass – A high-altitude mountain pass offering spectacular views.
- Keylong – A nearby town with monasteries and a rich cultural heritage.
- Darcha – A scenic spot known for trekking and adventure activities.
- Gemur Monastery – A centuries-old Buddhist monastery near Jispa, known for its murals and ancient artifacts.
Best Time to Visit Jispa
Jispa experiences different weather conditions throughout the year, making it essential to choose the best time for your visit.
- Summer (May – June): Ideal for pleasant weather, clear roads, and trekking.
- Monsoon (July – September): Risky due to landslides and unpredictable weather.
- Autumn (October – November): Good for photography and a peaceful retreat.
- Winter (December – April): Heavy snowfall makes Jispa inaccessible by road.
Essential Travel Tips
- Acclimatization: Jispa is at an altitude of 3,200 meters, so take it slow to avoid altitude sickness.
- Fuel Stations: Fuel up in Manali or Keylong as fuel stations are scarce.
- Cash: Carry cash as ATMs are limited and may not always be functional.
- Packing: Pack warm clothes, even in summer, as temperatures drop at night.
- Permits: No permits are required for Indian tourists, but foreigners may need an Inner Line Permit (ILP).
Conclusion
Reaching Jispa is an adventure in itself, whether by road, air, or rail. The journey through scenic landscapes, high-altitude passes, and serene valleys makes it a memorable experience. Plan your route wisely, prepare for altitude, and get ready to explore the untouched beauty of Jispa.
Have you traveled to Jispa? Share your experiences and travel tips in the comments below!
Relevant Reading:
- Jispa Village – Travel Guide & Must-See Attractions
- Famous Lakes in Himachal Pradesh
- Places to See in Spiti Valley
- Himachal Places to Visit in March 2025
- Himachal Honeymoon – Best Places to Visit
- Places to See in Keylong
- Places in Himachal to Visit in April 2025
- Skiing Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
- Places to See Himachal in December 2025
